he Ebony Rhythm Funk Campaign evolved from four musicians who were best friends and all left high school together to play in a band back in early 1970. Matthew Watson, Tony Roberts, Boobie Townsend and Ricky Jackson were soon joined by Lester Johnson after his tour of duty with the US Army came to an end.  Shortly after that they added Pam Tanner, Henry Leon Miles and Ron Hedricks to complete the original Funk Campaign.

The group hit the road and headed West.  From 1970 through 1973 they lived in Hollywood, surviving on air, popcorn and hope, Finally, in 1973 they released their first album for MCA under the production of Wayne Henderson.  But the fires of home were a strong pull on the stuggling group so they returned home to Indianapolis in 1974.

As One of the most popular "Naptown" bands of the 70's they continued to evolve with a single release How's Your Wife and My Child with Tom Washington in the Chitown records studios in 1975.  This latest single release of 69 Cents and That Is Why were also recorded in Chicago in the same session as How's Your Wife but never released.

The 1975 group consisted of Tony Roberts and Pam Tanner, vocals,  Robert "Booby" Townsend Guitar, Lester  Lamont Johnson, bass,  John R Jackson Keyboards, Matthew Watson drums, Carl Haefeli, trumpet, Henry Leon Miles Sax and Michael John Woods, trombone.

1975 also saw the band open for Earth Wind and Fire, BB King, Bobbie Blue Bland, Donny Hathaway, The Chi-Lites, and The Spinners.

The Ebony Rhythm Funk Campaign had an original style and always put on a great show.

69 Cents

Ebony Rhythm Funk Campaign "69 Cents" unissued 1974 Funk

This DJ mix brings together a lively blend of retro funk, disco and Latin rhythms. The playlist kicks off with a mellow jazz-funk track before transitioning into 90s rap and hip hop. It then moves into 70s funk and disco from artists like Ohio Players, Nu Genea and Celia Cruz. The middle of the mix features Latin-infused funk and R&B from Dom Salvador and Christopher Cross. The mix culminates with disco legends like Donna Summer, Rose Royce and Earth, Wind & Fire. Whether you're looking for an energetic party starter or a soundtrack for a laid-back evening, this mix has a little bit of everything.

Funky Disco Fiesta

From the brilliant compilation Private Wax - Released September 2012

Poncho C. Saint Fingers - When I Come Knocking

CAROL ANDERSON - I Found Love (1983)

MR DJ is an event DJ for the discerning listener. With a passion for uncovering forgotten gems and exploring the outer reaches of funk, disco, and global grooves, MR DJ's mixes dive deep into music history, drawing on tracks from the 60's to today. Equal parts music nerd and party-starter, MR DJ brings obscure cuts and familiar favorites together into an eclectic blend of sounds united by a retro-modern feel. Whether you're a fellow music obsessive looking for an off-the-beaten-path playlist, or just want to discover your next favorite dance track, MR DJ brings the tunes and the beats.

Funky Disco Fiesta

MR DJ

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